Justice For Oakley

9/22/2017 

Oakley is sent to live with foster parents, Erik and Jamie Jo Hiles. 

 

12/6/2017

Oakley turned one-year-old.

 

7/2018

Oakley’s permanent plan was changed to adoption.

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7/30/2018

Andrew Carlson was booked for assault 4 for attacking Jordan Bowers.

 

11/14/2018

Carlson is ordered by the Court to "obtain a domestic violence evaluation within 90 days of release and shall enter and successfully complete the recommended treatment program."

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12/6/2018

Oakley turned two-years-old. 

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3/7/2019 

Oakley comes home from a supervised visit. During the two hours visit her diaper was not changed.  She also comes home with red marks/scratches on her cheeks. Jamie Jo asked the visit supervisor, Brenda, what happened, and she stated, she did not know where the marks came from. See March 26, 2019 for Jamie Jo’s follow up email to case worker Angela Fries.

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3/26/2019 

Jamie Jo Hiles emailed WA DCYF case worker, Angela Fries, and she sent a recent “Visit Observation Log” which includes the incident from March 7, 2019 when Oakley came home from a supervised visit with red marks/scratches on her cheeks.  Ms. Fries ignored the information about the red marks/scratches and that the visit supervisor Brenda is unable to describe what happened.  

*See email and picture from Jamie Jo Hiles

*See email from social worker Angela Fries

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5/13/2019

The Domestic Violence Treatment Program Carlson is enrolled in wrote a letter to Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Family Services that stated, "This letter is to notify you of Mr. Carlson's failure to comply with his Domestic Violence Treatment Program with ----. Mr. Carlson has failed to attend his group sessions since April 1, 2019. This has resulted in Mr. Carlson's discharge from our program." *See letter

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5/16/2019

WA DCYF/Child Protective Services completed a detailed report regarding Jordan Bowers and Andrew Carlson that was filed as a sealed confidential report with the court.

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5/20/2019 

The Prosecuting Attorney files a Petition to Revoke Facts to Stipulation #1 regarding Andrew Carlson’s case. The Petition states, “The Defendant has failed to provide verification he has obtained a domestic violence evaluation or has followed the recommended treatment program. The State therefore requests a finding that the defendant has violated the terms of the Stipulation to Facts, that the Court review the police reports herein pursuant to said Stipulation and find the defendant guilty as charged.”

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July - September 2019

Carlson returned to court for additional hearings on this matter.

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9/30/2019 

Jamie Jo Hiles stated that the Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families contacted her and her husband to make them aware that Oakley was going to be placed back in her biological parents’ care in January 2020.

 

10/11/2019
The Hiles have a meeting at the Aberdeen DCYF office with Angela Fries and Kathryn Eddy about concerns of returning Oakley so quickly. The Hiles were told “she isn’t your daughter” and “being poor isn’t a reason for someone to not have their children” when the Hiles asked about neither parent being employed.

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10/19/2019

Oakley's first unsupervised visit with Bowers and Carlson. 

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10/26/2019
Oakley came home from a visit stating there was violence between Bowers and Carlson. Oakley stated that she saw Bowers hit Carlson over a video that Oakley was watching on one of their phones. Jamie Jo emailed social worker Angela Fries and was told that “there were no concerns, and that Oakley loved her mom and dad”. *See video

11/6/2019

Jamie Jo Hiles emailed social worker Angela Fries and supervisor Kathryn Eddy to state she heard that overnight visits are going to begin, and she is concerned since the domestic violence incident between Bowers and Carlson happened recently. She also stated her concerns that things are moving too quickly. Ms. Fries responded by letting Jamie Jo know that Oakley will in fact be reunifying with her biological parents even earlier than expected with a new date of November 29, 2019.

 

11/9/2019

Oakley has her first overnight visit at Bowers’ and Carlson’s home.
 

11/13/2019

Carlson returned to court and the Judge reversed the motion and the charges of ASSAULT 4 were dismissed.

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11/17/2019

Erik Hiles emails social worker Angela Fries and supervisor Kathryn Eddy to ask about Oakley’s transition to bioparents. They never responded to concerns about why the transition was moved up so abruptly.

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11/29/2019 

Oakley was returned to her biological parents, Jordan Bowers and Andrew Carlson.

 

12/6/2019

Oakley turned 3-years-old.

 

6/3/2020

Per WA State DCYF Oakley’s dependency matter was closed and paperwork was signed by the social worker, Angela Fries.
 

7/27/2020
Per court documents regarding a custody hearing not related to Oakley Carlson, in these documents Counsel referenced a detailed report by WA DCYF/CPS completed on May 16, 2019, and expressed the following concerns about Bowers and Carlson:

• "Ms. Bowers was recently ordered to undergo a UA (urinalysis). Counsel only has an illegible copy of the results. Furthermore, the CPS report specifically noted a comment Ms. Bowers made to her social worker that she knew how to pass a UA (urinalysis).” *See document

• “Counsel received copies of letters, dated June 24, 2020, written by DSHS from Ms. Bowers indicating that she and Mr. Carlson have completed court ordered services. However, counsel has not received actual written documentation from the treatment agencies.  In addition, the CPS report states that Ms. Bowers received two domestic violence assessments.  The first assessment recommended one year of domestic violence treatment.  Thereafter, Ms. Bowers apparently obtained a second domestic violence assessment that concluded no services were necessary.  However, the CPS report states that Ms. Bowers was not honest in her account of reporting domestic violence.  Counsel does not know if Ms. Bowers ever participated in domestic violence counseling.  It is notable that CPS expressed concern about Ms. Bowers and Mr. Carlson meeting the needs of one of their disabled children, specifically noting that they had failed to attend an appointment at Mary Bridge Hospital, although they had been given a gas card to attend.” *See document

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8/2020

Per court documents, last time Oakley’s 6-year-old sibling’s medical prescription was filled.
 

9/2020 to 12/2021

According to court documents, Bowers and Carlson stop giving Oakley’s 6-year-old sibling her medication.

 

12/6/2020

Oakley turned four-years-old. 
 

12/25/2020 

Oakley spends Christmas with her family at the home of her grandparents, Fred and Kate Carlson. During the investigation, Oakley’s grandmother told police Oakley “didn’t look well.” According to court documents, Oakley’s grandmother told police Oakley had dark circles under her eyes, pale skin and that she had scratches or sores on her face. 

 

1/26/2021

Jamie Jo called DCYF after seeing a photo of Oakley from December of 2020. An associate of the family showed her the photo who received it from Kate Carlson, Oakley’s biological grandma. It appeared she had a black eye. Jamie Jo had also heard rumors that Carlson was fired from his job at Murphy Veneer in Elma, WA for drug use. Jamie Jo consulted with Elma Police Chief, Chief Susan Shultz and asked for advice. Chief Shultz told her that she personally could not do a wellness check on Oakley as Oakville was out of her jurisdiction, but that Jamie Jo could call WA DCYF and a sheriff would go out to Oakley’s residence. Jamie Jo called WA DCYF and spoke with Intake worker, Morgan Artis. He spoke very sternly to Jamie Jo and let her know that since she did not witness any incidents firsthand, he presumed that her information was inaccurate and told her she could get in trouble for making false reports. Jamie Jo told him she was a mandated reporter by profession and was very concerned about Oakley’s safety.

 

1/27/2021

There is a “verified sighting” of Oakley Carlson per Grays Harbor Sheriff’s Office after Jamie Jo Hiles called WA DCYF about her concerns about Oakley’s safety. There was a WA DCYF case opened and the case worker went to check on Oakley and her siblings.

 

2/10/2021 

There is a “credible sighting” of Oakley Carlson per Grays Harbor Sheriff's Office. Oakley was last seen alive by someone who is associated with the family per Grays Harbor Sheriff's Office.
 

3/24/2021
WA DCYF called and asked if Jamie Jo had seen Oakley or her sister. Jamie Jo told them she had not as she was not involved with the family. WA DCYF did not tell her why they were calling.

End of March 2021

WA DCYF closes the case without seeing Oakley Carlson.

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11/6/2021 

Carlson calls dispatch at 1654 pm to report a fire at the family home that took place around 10 am according to him. He told dispatchers his daughter Oakley used a cigarette lighter to light the couch on fire and that he put the fire out himself. He stated a response was not needed but wanted to report the fire. Bowers had also told others Oakley had started the fire and that she and her husband “fought the fire for about four hours,” per court documents. Fire investigators first stated that the fire had started from the microwave on the kitchen counter. We now know this information was incorrect. *See photos of Fire
 

11/10/2021 

Oakville Elementary School Principal, Jessica Swift, went to Oakley’s home to bring the family supplies after the fire.  She stayed at the house for about 45 minutes. When Swift asked about Oakley, Bowers and Carlson told Swift that Oakley was in her room.  

 

11/17/2021 

GoFundMe is created to benefit Jordan Bowers by Anna Johnson after the fire at the 177 Bartell Road residence.
 

11/18/2021 

Jamie Jo Hiles emailed WA DCYF case worker, Angela Fries, and her supervisor, Kathryn Eddy, at WA DCYF to let them know about the fire/suspicious GoFundMe. Jamie Jo DID NOT receive a response. *See email

 

11/19/2021

Jamie Jo called WA DCYF about the fire. 

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11/24/2021 

Swift went back to Oakley’s home to drop off more supplies. Swift told police she stayed about 5 minutes and saw the other three children, but not Oakley.

 

11/30/2021

Bowers and Carlson claim they last saw Oakley.

 

12/4/2021 

Oakley’s 6-year-old sibling goes to Swift’s home for a playdate and sleepover. According to court documents, when Swift asked about Oakley, the sibling got upset and stated, “Oakley is no more.”  When Swift asked about Oakley again, the sibling said Oakley went to live with her foster parents that she had lived with before. Deputies later confirmed with Swift that Oakley was no longer in foster care. 

 

12/5/2021 

Swift asked Oakley’s sibling if Oakley lived with them and was told “no.” The sibling then told Swift that Oakley was living with her former foster parents.  Swift contacted the Grays Harbor County Sheriff’s Office saying she was concerned for Oakley’s safety and requested a welfare check. 

12/6/2021

• Approximately 10 am: Officers with the Tumwater Police Department initiated a welfare check for Oakley and interviewed Oakley’s parents in their hotel room at the Extended Stay America in Tumwater, WA.
• 12 pm:  Court documents state that based on the examination of Bowers' cell phone, it appears to have been erased  and factory reset around 12 pm.  This occurred shortly after Bowers and Carlson were contacted by the Tumwater Police Department in reference to an investigation into their missing child, Oakley Carlson.
• 3:31 pm: An officer confirmed that Bowers and Carlson left the hotel with their 2-year-old and returned to 177 Bartell Road. Carlson calls Thurston County non-emergency line to report Oakley is missing and that they have not seen her since November 30, 2021 - only after being confronted by law enforcement at the hotel. According to court documents, when giving his statement to law enforcement Andrew made statements to the effect of "Oakley being dead, or not coming back or a reunion."
• 5:10 pm: Bowers is booked into the Grays Harbor County Jail for allegedly obstructing an officer and on suspicion of first-degree manslaughter.
• 6:50 pm: forensic interview with Oakley's sister at the Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC) in Montesano by forensic interviewer Nina Taylor.

• 9:30 pm: Carlson is booked into the Grays Harbor County Jail on suspicion of first-degree manslaughter.

Jamie Jo received a call from WA DCYF/ Grays Harbor County Sheriff asking if she had seen Oakley, and if she could take her little brother and Oakley once she was located for emergency foster placement. This was also Oakley’s 5th birthday.

 

12/7/2021 

Officials continue searching the family property. The Grays Harbor County Sheriff’s Office posted on Facebook asking for the public’s help locating Oakley. Oakley’s sister’s temporary foster parents ask law enforcement about a medication prescribed to the 6-year-old, and law enforcement learns Bowers and Carlson had not been giving the child the medication. WA DCYF never calls Jamie Jo to say Oakley has not been located.

 

12/8/2021 

Grays Harbor Sheriff’s Office detectives, Washington State Patrol troopers and the FBI were seen searching the areas surrounding the family’s property, which covers about 300 acres. Video taken by KING 5 News shows crime scene tape at the end of the home’s driveway and tents set up in the yard. Investigators also appeared to be digging. *See Video

 

12/9/2021 

The Grays Harbor County Sheriff’s Office announced Bowers and Carlson face charges of abandonment of a dependent person in the second degree after investigators discovered evidence the parents had not been providing medication prescribed to their other daughter for 15-months. According to investigators the medication is necessary for the 6-year-old's health, and going without it puts her at risk of physical impairment, which could eventually result in death. Bowers and Carlson are no longer being held on the charge of first-degree manslaughter. Undersheriff Brad Johansson stated the ground search of the family home and property was "extensive," and the sheriff's office also brought in divers and aircraft.

 

12/10/2021
The Washington State Department of Children, Youth and Families takes hair follicle samples from Oakley’s 6-year-old sister and 2-year-old brother to submit for analysis. The tests eventually reveal substantial amounts of methamphetamine in both hair follicle samples, indicating the children were exposed to the drug within the last three months.

 

12/12/2021 

A Change.org petition pushing for new laws protecting foster children hits 2,000 online signatures. The petition calls for a law passed that would create a five-point system of support to check in on children who are returning to families after exiting the foster care system and to mandate long-term drug testing for families who are reunified with their children. 

 

12/13/2021 

Johansson told KING 5 News, that detectives are still working on the case, but investigators finished searching the family house and property.  

 

12/15/2021 

Oakley's grandparents, Fred and Kate Carlson, whom officers state helped with the investigation, released the following statement, "The Carlson family have been and continue to be fully cooperating with this investigation. Our only objective is to find our granddaughter Oakley. We're praying that Oakley will be found soon and also for the multitude of good people working around the clock to make that happen. We ask that the media respect our privacy during this very difficult time, and we do not wish to make any further statement for now. Thank you." 
 

12/17/2021 

The Oakley’s Law petition ends with nearly 7,000 signatures. Representative Mike Chapman of the 24th legislative district, Oakley's district, gave the following statement to KING 5 News, “I met with Rep. Tana Senn and staff from [the Washington State Department of Children, Youth and Families] DCYF today to discuss policy and budget options. We should have a better scope of solutions when we meet in January.” 

 

12/30/2021 

Bowers and Carlson appeared in court for allegedly not providing medication to Oakley’s 6-year-old sibling for 15 months, which is necessary for the child’s health. Grays Harbor County Superior Court Judge Katherine Svoboda found probable cause for one count of abandonment of a dependent person in the second degree against both Bowers and Carlson and bail was set at $150,000. Bowers and Carlson were expected back in court for their arraignment on Jan. 10, 2022. The abandonment charges are unrelated to the investigation into the disappearance of Oakley, although Chief Criminal Deputy Jason Walker alleged during Thursday’s hearing that Bowers and Carlson “clearly know what happened to the 5-year-old child, and they’re not saying anything.” Before Thursday’s court hearing, demonstrators gathered outside the Grays Harbor County Courthouse demanding justice for Oakley Carlson. 

 

12/30/21
Demonstrators hold a rally outside the Grays Harbor County Jail demanding answers about Oakley Carlson.

 

1/10/2022

Bowers and Carlson both plead not guilty to second-degree abandonment of a dependent child. Their trial dates are set for April 2022.

 

1/20/2022

Deputy Prosecutor Jason Walker submits a motion in Grays Harbor County Superior Court, to file amended information adding two counts of endangerment with a controlled substance to Bowers’ and Carlson’s cases, citing results from the hair follicle tests that show methamphetamine in both hair samples.

 

1/28/2022

The Grays Harbor County Sheriff’s Office submits new evidence to the Grays Harbor County Prosecutor’s Office. Based on this evidence, Walker alleges Bowers and Carlson exposed the 6-year-old and 2-year-old to methamphetamine as early as July 1, 2021.

 

1/29/2022
Demonstrators hold a rally outside the Grays Harbor County Jail demanding answers about Oakley Carlson.

 

1/31/2022

Bowers and Carlson appear in Grays Harbor County Superior Court for omnibus hearings. The judge schedules a hearing for February 7, 2022, to add two new charges to both Bowers’ and Carlson’s cases based on the new evidence from the sheriff’s office.

 

2/2022

Jamie Jo Hiles files a complaint on behalf of Oakley Carlson’s case with the Office of Family and Children’s Ombuds (OFCO).

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2/7/2022

Bowers and Carlson each pleaded not guilty to two counts of endangerment with a controlled substance.

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2/10/2022

Light The Way Missing Persons Advocacy Project starts a weekly email and phone campaign to contact Governor Inslee, Attorney General Ferguson, Washington Legislators, and WA DCYF Leadership to request an immediate outside agency review of Oakley Carlson’s WA DCYF case. This campaign continues each Thursday.

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2/22/2022

Bowers and Carlson appear in Grays Harbor County Superior Court for omnibus hearings. A 3.5 suppression hearing to determine whether statements of guilt made by Bowers can be used as evidence in trial is scheduled.

 

2/26/2022
Demonstrators hold a rally outside the Grays Harbor County Jail demanding answers about Oakley Carlson.
 

3/12/2022
Demonstrators hold a rally outside the Grays Harbor County Jail demanding answers about Oakley Carlson. *See Video

 

3/14/2022

Bowers and Carlson appear in Grays Harbor County Superior Court for trial readiness hearings. Carlson pleaded guilty to two counts of endangerment with a controlled substance.

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3/17/2022

Jamie Jo Hiles and Light The Way Missing Persons Advocacy Group attend the WA DCYF Oversight Board meeting and submit public comments. *See Video

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3/18/2022

Patrick Dowd, Director of the Office of the Family and Children’s Ombuds, calls Jamie Jo Hiles to introduce himself and states he cannot tell her anything in regard to the complaint she has filed, but she should tell him everything they know. This was the day after Light The Way Missing Persons Advocacy Project spoke at the WA State DCYF Oversight Board Meeting for the first time.

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3/25/2022

Bowers appears in Grays Harbor County Superior Court for a 3.5 suppression hearing. A judge rules that statements made by Bowers to a corrections officer can be used in trial.

 

3/28/2022

Carlson appears in Grays Harbor County Superior Court for his sentencing hearing. During the hearing, the Honorable Judge Svoboda stated, “It’s a father’s job to protect their children, you certainly failed in that Mr. Carlson.” He was sentenced to the maximum 12-months in jail. In addition he must not possess or use controlled substances, including Marijuana or THC, without a valid prescription; he must obtain a chemical dependency evaluation within 45 days of his release, which includes following up with any treatment recommended and provide proof to the court within 6 months of his release; Carlson is not to possess any firearms, and he is also not to have unsupervised contact with anyone under the age of 18 with exception of his biological children. Svoboda said contact with his biological children would be decided in dependency court. Carlson is due back in court September 12, 2022, at 9 am in person or by zoom for chemical dependency hearing.

 

4/4/2022

Bowers appears in Grays Harbor County Superior Court for a facts and conclusions hearing. The defense had no objections to the witness list presented by the prosecution and the defense did not present a witness list other than the defendant, Jordan Bowers.  The Readiness Hearing will take place next Monday, April 11, 2022, at 8 am PST.

 

4/6/2022

Bowers appears in Grays Harbor County Superior Court for a dependency hearing. Her attorney puts in a motion requesting that Bowers telephonic visits with her children and mentions Oakley’s name in the motion. The Honorable Judge Mistachkin denied Bowers' request saying it was not in the best interest of the children.

 

4/8/2022

Bowers pleaded guilty to two counts of endangerment with a controlled substance.

 

4/9/2022

Demonstrators hold a rally outside the Grays Harbor County Jail demanding answers about Oakley Carlson. *See Video

4/22/2022
Jordan Bowers was sentenced to 20-months in prison for two charges of child endangerment with a controlled substance.  Demonstrators held a rally outside of the courthouse and demanded answers about Oakley's whereabouts as Bowers was being sentenced. *See Video

5/26/2022
Jordan Bowers is transferred out of Grays Harbor County Jail to the Department of Corrections facility/Purdy in Gig Harbor, WA to begin serving her 20-month prison sentence.

5/27/2022

Governor Inslee sends a letter to Mr. Patrick Dowd Director Office of the Family and Children’s Ombud initiating a review of WA DCYF.  “I believe it is prudent and appropriate to request an examination of the agency’s handling of this case, whether to affirm that DCYF followed all proper protocols and policies, or to identify whether agency actions may have contributed to her disappearance. Once you have completed your analysis, my expectation is that you will report back with your findings and any recommendations. I thank you and your staff for the incredibly valuable and important work you do on behalf of children and families.” *To See Governor Inslee’s Request Letter, Click Here

5/27/2022
Patrick Dowd, Director of the Office of the Family and Children’s Ombuds, calls Jamie Jo Hiles a second time. He again states he cannot tell her anything in regard to the complaint she has filed, but she should tell him everything they know. Jamie Jo inquired about an outside agency review and Dowd stated that he thought it would not be possible with the laws but to take things with a “grain of salt”. He also said that if an outside agency were to investigate then it would not be possible for them to get records about Oakley. He said in the future he would like to meet with Jamie Jo and hear about her complaints and see her records of where DCYF messed up. He never mentioned that Governor Inslee had requested a review of Oakley Carlson’s DCYF case on the same day.

6/24/2022

Patrick Dowd, Director of the Office of the Family and Children’s Ombuds, calls Jamie Jo Hiles a third time. He again states he cannot tell her anything in regard to the complaint she has filed, but she should tell him everything they know. Jamie Jo reviews her timeline of the failures of DCYF and the case worker, Angela Fries, and supervisor, Kathryn Eddy. Dowd lets Jamie Jo know that the Ombuds office cannot release any information publicly until a fatality review is requested. Dowd tells Jamie Jo he “hopes” for a fatality review. He did not mention the request for an investigation or next steps at the end of the conversation.

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6/27/2022

Jordan Bowers is transferred to Mission Creek Corrections Center for Women in Belfair, WA.

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7/7/2022

Jamie Jo Hiles and Light The Way Missing Persons Advocacy Group attend the WA DCYF Oversight Board meeting and submit public comments. *See Video

7/16/2022
The Hiles family along with Light The Way Missing Persons Advocacy Group hosted Paint the Night Pink, an Auction and Dinner for Oakley and raised nearly $50,000 for her reward fund. *See Video

7/21/2022
Kathryn Leathers, General Counsel for Governor Inslee sends Light The Way Missing Persons Advocacy Project the following email, “Thank you for reaching out, and for your advocacy on behalf of Oakley Carlson and others. I don’t have the words to adequately acknowledge the pain that the Hiles must be experiencing. I cannot imagine it. I also do not have the necessary expertise that would enable me to be personally helpful in assessing the facts of this case. To that point, I wanted to let you know that in May the Governor asked the Office of the Family and Children’s Ombuds (OFCO) to conduct an analysis of DCYF’s handling of this matter. I believe that OFCO does have the necessary expertise to conduct a thorough and independent review, and that OFCO will report their findings and any recommendations to the Governor in a timely manner. I have attached a copy of the Governor’s letter to OFCO here. Respectfully, Kathryn” 

7/21/2022
Jamie Jo Hiles and Light The Way Missing Persons Advocacy Group attend the WA DCYF Oversight Board meeting and submit public comments. *See Video 

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7/31/2022

Demonstrators hold a rally outside the Grays Harbor County Jail demanding answers about Oakley Carlson. *See Video

08/03/2022
Andrew Carlson is released from Grays Harbor County Jail for child endangerment charges.

9/1/2022

Jamie Jo Hiles and Light The Way Missing Persons Advocacy Group attend the WA DCYF Oversight Board meeting and submit public comments. *See Video

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9/9/2022

Patrick Dowd, Director of the Office of the Family and Children’s Ombuds, released the OFCO Investigation Report Regarding Oakley Carlson that was requested by Governor Jay Inslee on May 27, 2022. The report cleared WA DCYF of any wrongdoing in the investigation of Oakley Carlson’s case.  The report did state, “The OFCO investigation included a full review of all relevant records and documents and interviews with individuals with direct involvement or information about the Department’s handling of this case. Our investigation particularly focused on family reunification efforts, permanency planning, and the Department’s response to any identified child safety or risk factors prior to and after Oakley was returned home. We found that Department’s actions and conduct in this case were consistent with laws, policies and court orders. Our investigation however identified opportunities to improve services to families, and specifically to preserve and strengthen the parent-child bond when a child is removed from the home. “Family time” or parent-child visits, are critical to promoting bonding, attachment, healthy child development and successful family reunification. Our elected officials and agency leaders must ensure that adequate resources are dedicated to family time services so that parents and children receive the maximum visitation possible. Furthermore, reunification planning should not only focus on a parent’s successful compliance with services but should also address parent-child bonding and attachment issues. We have documented the issues and findings raised in this investigation and will include them in our annual report to the Governor and to the Legislature. *See full document at this link

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09/12/2022

Andrew Carlson is a no-show to his 9 am chemical dependency review hearing. The judge issues a bench warrant. Carlson then makes a surprise visit to the 1 pm criminal hearing, then again at the 2 pm where his warrant is quashed, and he is scheduled for another hearing for the following week.

09/15/2022

Jamie Jo Hiles and Light The Way Missing Persons Advocacy Group attend the WA DCYF Oversight Board meeting and submit public comments. Senator Judy Warnick stops Secretary of WA DCYF during his presentation to ask questions about the report done by Ross Hunter on Oakley Carlson’s case. She states, “I still wonder why we are protecting adults and not this child?” *See Video

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09/19/2022
Andrew Carlson appears in court via Zoom for his chemical dependency review hearing after a 1-week delay. It is announced that Carlson still has not submitted the paperwork requested by the court to show he has completed treatment.  His attorney mentioned that he has a PO Box in Olympia. The Judge gives him 1 more additional week to produce the paperwork.
 

09/26/2022

Andrew Carlson appears in court via Zoom for his chemical dependency review hearing after another 1-week delay. His certificate from treatment has been reviewed and he completed treatment on Aug 31, 2022. Carlson is ordered to provide an evaluation and treatment plan. Judge Svoboda ruled that Carlson is not in compliance and is required to appear in person at Grays Harbor Superior Court in Montesano for court next Monday, October 3 at 9am. The state will need to be ready to file a motion to show cause as to why Carlson should not be punished for violations.

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10/03/2022
Andrew Carlson appears in person at the Grays Harbor Superior Court in Montesano and was found to be in compliance with the order but the Judge stated “compliance will continue to be monitored, so it’s very important that he continues in his compliance to avoid further court action.” Demonstrators held a rally outside the courthouse and demanded answers about Oakley Carlson.

1/2023
Oakley Carlson is featured in the ALERT spot for all 7 zones of the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children's Walmart Poster Campaign which can be found nationwide in stores. 

1/15/2023
Bowers was released from the Mission Creek Washington Correctional Center for Women after serving her sentence for child endangerment. The Grays Harbor Sheriff’s Office had submitted an investigation to the Grays Harbor Prosecutor's Office for Identity Theft and Fraud. Grays Harbor Prosecutors filed criminal charges for these offenses. Arrest warrants were issued for three counts of Identity Theft in the First Degree (class B felony) and one count of Identity Theft in the Second Degree (class C felony). Upon her release, Grays Harbor Sheriff’s Office detectives took her into custody, and she was booked into the Grays Harbor County Jail. These charges stem from complaints from multiple victims who experienced fraudulent banking activity. After the investigation was completed Bowers was identified as the primary suspect.

1/18/2023
The Oakley Carlson Act, H.B. 1397 sponsored by Rep. Jim Walsh, Rep. Eric Robertson, Rep. Tom Dent, and Rep. Carolyn Eslick was given its first reading and was then referred to the Human Services, Youth, and Learning committee. The bill specifically focuses on "maintaining the safety of children who have been removed from a parent based on abuse, neglect, or abandonment." It also states, "The tragic disappearance of six year old Oakley Carlson has captured the attention of people from all corners of Washington state, the United States, and the world. The fact that this vibrant little girl vanished after being removed from loving foster parents and returned to troubled birth parents raises serious questions about the effectiveness of our state's child welfare policies and bureaucracies. (2) The legislature intends to: (a) Improve the operations and oversight of Washington's child welfare system; and (b) Create positive change from the sadness and sorrow of young Oakley's disappearance. (3) For these reasons, the legislature finds that clear and specific standards for returning young children to birth parents who have lost custody of those children will help reduce the risk of harm befalling those children. While reunification of birth families is a good and necessary goal, it must be realized in a careful and comprehensive manner. Reunification must be realized in a manner that protects the children above all other interests." *Click here to read H.B. 1397
 

1/22/2022

Demonstrators hold a rally outside the Grays Harbor County Jail demanding answers about Oakley Carlson. *See Video
 

1/23/2023
During Bowers' arraignment she pleaded not guilty to the 3 counts of ID theft in the first degree and 1 count of ID theft in the second degree. Her attorney, Michael Nagle, expressed that Bowers should be granted supervision to a 43-year-old Auburn resident. This person, who was present in the courtroom, claimed to have had a close relationship with Bowers over the last five years. The request was denied after Judge Svoboda researched his criminal history and found out he was on DOC supervision. She stated that Bowers "will not be released without an appropriate plan in place." Bail was also reset for $50,000 due to the fact that Bowers offender score is so high. Bowers is looking at 63 to 84 months in prison if found guilty. The Judge noted that, "the whole way that these cards were discovered, is the allegation that she was packing out to flee. It makes her even more of a flight risk.” Omnibus was set for Feb 21, Trial Readiness was set for March 13, and Trial will begin on March 21. Later in the day Bowers had a second hearing regarding a restraining order. Trever Perez, father of Bowers' oldest son, has been seeking a permanent no-contact order against Bowers. Bowers was a no show and Perez was advised to file a Motion of Default and submit the proposed parenting plan that he initially presented on final orders for entry. The hearing was continued until Feb 6.

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2/10/2023
Two years since Oakley Carlson's last credible sighting by an associate of the family per Grays Harbor County Sheriff’s Office.

 

2/10/2023

Supporters rallied at The Capitol in Olympia, Washington on the two-year anniversary of the last credible sighting of Oakley Carlson to show support for House Bill 1397, known as The Oakley Carlson Act.  If passed, it would have made a number of changes to protect children who have been removed from a biological parent based on abuse, neglect or abandonment. Leading the charge at the silent gathering was Jamie Jo and Erik Hiles, Oakley's loving foster family, who planned to adopt her before she was abruptly removed after numerous concerns were made regarding Oakley's safety.

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2/17/2023

House Bill 1397, known as The Oakley Carlson Act, had a hearing in the Washington State House Human Services, Youth and Early Learning Committee. Many supporters of the bill gave emotional testimony during the hearing including Jamie Jo Hiles, Oakley's foster mother, who stated "After Oakley was returned to her bios to what would be a literal hell on earth for her, I called twice with concerns about abuse. My daughter’s life should not be used for an agenda. My daughter is missing and DCYF played a part in failing to protect her." Committee chair, Rep. Tana Senn did not bring this bill forward to a vote and therefore the bill died in committee. *See video

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2/21/2023

Bowers appeared for an Omnibus Order hearing pertaining to the ID theft charges. The state asked for a continuance due to the possibility of a 5th victim coming forward and the defense did not object. Judge David Mistachkin granted the motion.

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2/22/2023

Bowers appeared for a Pre-Trial Conference pertaining to the no contact order violation. Defense requested a one week continuance and Judge Vingo granted the motion.

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2/27/2023

Bowers appeared for a Pre-Trial Conference pertaining to the no contact order violation. Defense requested a one week continuance and Judge Vingo granted the motion.

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2/27/2023

Bowers appeared for an Omnibus Order hearing pertaining to the ID theft charges. The defense stated that he believes they will have an agreed upon Omnibus Order but will need another week. The state did not object. Judge Mistachkin granted the motion.

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3/1/2023

Bowers appeared for a Pre-Trial Conference pertaining to the no contact order violation. The defense stated he is trying to work things out with the state but needs an additional two weeks continuance. Judge Vingo granted the motion and the hearing was rescheduled for March 13.

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3/6/2023
Bowers appeared for an Omnibus Order hearing pertaining to the ID theft charges. When asked by Judge Mistachkin what the defense will be, Bowers’ attorney claimed that it would be “general denial.” Following the presentation of the omnibus order, the hearing ended as there were no statements, pretrial motions or substantive matters that were brought up by the defense or Prosecuting Attorney Richard Petersen. With no resolutions brought forward, Bowers will face trial for identity theft.

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3/13/2023
Bowers appeared for a Pre-Trial Conference pertaining to the ID theft charges. Judge Kathryn Svoboda granted a motion of continuance from the state to move the Pre-Trial Conference to a later date allowing for more time to negotiate. Although the negotiations were not discussed in the courtroom, Prosecuting Attorney Peterson made it known to The Daily World that a plea deal is available and that, if accepted, Bowers would be sentenced to a maximum of 70-months in prison with good time credit for early release potential. She would also be forced to pay all restitution to the victims. The new Pre-Trial Conference for Bowers was scheduled for April 10, Trial Readiness was scheduled for April 24, and Trial will begin May 2.

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4/3/2023
Bowers appeared for a Pre-Trial Conference pertaining to the ID theft charges. Judge Svoboda granted a motion of continuance from the state to move the Pre-Trial Conference to the following week. The defense did not object. The new Pre-Trial Conference for Bowers was scheduled for April 10.

 

4/10/2023
Bowers appeared for a Pre-Trial Conference pertaining to the ID theft charges. Judge Svoboda granted a motion of continuance from the state to move the Pre-Trial Conference to the following week. The defense did not object. The new Pre-Trial Conference for Bowers was scheduled for April 17. 

 

4/17/2023

Bowers appeared for a Pre-Trial Conference pertaining to the ID theft charges. Both the state and defense attorney attempted to request more time, but it was initially denied by Judge Svoboda, citing trial readiness is set for April 24. As a last-ditch attempt to file any negotiations, Judge Svoboda has granted that the hearing will resume at 3 PM on April 20. If nothing can be agreed upon, Bowers will face trial on May 2.

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4/20/2023
Bowers appeared for a Pre-Trial Conference pertaining to the ID theft charges. Both the state and defense attorney announced they could not find common ground on a plea agreement. As a result, both sides confirmed to Judge Svoboda that they were ready to proceed with the trial. Judge Svoboda then announced that trial readiness would be stricken due to the proximity of the previously scheduled hearing and stated that any issues needed to be dealt with by written motion. Trial is scheduled for May 2.

 

4/25/2023 & 4/27/2023

A motion to continue the trial was granted. New jury trial was scheduled for June 6. 

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5/3/2023

Age progression picture of Oakley Carlson picture is released by Grays Harbor County Sheriff's Office and they released the following statement, "Oakley Carlson was reported missing on 12/06/21, and the last credible sighting of Oakley was on 02/10/21. Since that time, the Grays Harbor County Sheriff's Office with the assistance of numerous law enforcement agencies and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) have continued to investigate this case and search for Oakley. Due to the circumstances surrounding her disappearance, a recent photo of Oakley was difficult to obtain at the time of her disappearance. The picture originally used at that time was of Oakley on about her 3rd birthday, two years prior to her being reported missing. Thanks to the assistance of NCMEC, we now have an age progression picture showing Oakley at about 6 years old, as she would appear now. If you have any information regarding the Oakley Carlson investigation, please contact the Grays Harbor Sheriff's Office at (360) 964-1729" *Link to flyer

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5/8/2023
Bowers appeared for a Status Conference hearing pertaining to the ID theft charges. The State was granted a motion for a modification of the dates that the ID theft crimes were committed. The next hearing will be the Pre-Trial Conference on May 22. 

 

5/10/2023

Per Odyssey there was a hearing regarding a motion that was filed by the defense to change the trial venue and Judge Svoboda denied the motion. 

 

5/17/2023
Per Odyssey a notice of intent to introduce business records was filed.

5/22/2023

Bowers appeared for a Pre-Trial Conference hearing pertaining to the ID theft charges. Both the state and defense announced that they are ready to proceed for Trial Readiness on May 30. Prosecutor stated that witnesses are ready for trial, while the Defense has no witnesses.

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5/30/2023

Bowers appeared for a Readiness Hearing pertaining to the ID theft charges. During the hearing both the state and defense announced they are ready for trial which is scheduled to begin on June 6. The judge stated that there would be additional hearing on May 31 for an in-depth discussion regarding spectator behavior and juror privacy from being inadvertently contacted by the public. 

 

5/31/2023

Bowers appeared for a Motion in Limine pertaining to the ID theft charges. During the hearing Judge Svoboda discussed trial expectations which included no mention of Bowers' missing child Oakley Carlson, behavior of courtroom observers, media presence, and jury selection.

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6/1/2023

Per Odyssey the states' list of witnesses was amended. 

 

6/2/2023

A hearing took place to discuss a motion to continue the trial. Judge Svoboda agreed to continue the trial to a later date and a Status Conference Hearing was scheduled for June 5 to determine the new trial date. 

 

6/5/2023

Bowers appeared for a Status Conference hearing. The defense announced that Bowers waived her right to a speedy trial and the new trial date was set for July 25. 

 

6/26/2023

Bowers appeared for a Pre-Trial Conference pertaining to the ID theft charges. The defense requested that Bowers be released on bail and granted supervision to a man unknown to the court.  He did not appear on Zoom for the scheduled hearing, so the request was denied by Judge Svoboda.

 

7/1/2023

The Hiles Family launches the Oakley Carlson book drive during the month of July to honor their missing daughter. The family would like to collect 500 books to donate books to local foster visitation centers, daycares and libraries. From the Hiles, "Oakley had such a love of reading, and we would be delighted to pass this love of books on to other children and teens. Each book donated will have a sticker inside with a photo of Oakley, and the words "With love and hope for Oakley Carlson."

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Summer 2023

Grays Harbor Sheriff’s Office conducts searches for Oakley Carlson. *Link to their statement 

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7/17/2023

Bowers appeared for a Readiness Hearing pertaining to the ID theft charges. During the hearing both sides announced they are ready for trial which is scheduled to begin on July 25.

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7/24/2023

Bowers appeared for a change of plea hearing and she accepted a plea deal and pleaded guilty to three counts of first degree identity theft and one count of second degree identity theft. The terms of the plea deal included a 36-month sentence, restitution for the victims, and she will be eligible for 12 months of community custody.

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8/1/2023

The Washington State Court of Appeals Division Two released it's published opinion on the matter of welfare of Oakley Carlson and DC regarding the Grays Harbor County Sheriff’s Office filing several emergency motions, seeking access to dependency and juvenile court records related to OC and two of her siblings, BB-P and DC, in order to determine whether those records contained any information that might help locate OC. The juvenile court granted the motions.
Key pieces of information regarding the abuse of which Oakley and her siblings endured was released as well as what information about the involvement of the Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families in the Bowers/Carlson home.
"Prior Proceedings: JB is the mother of BB-P2 (born in 2012), DC (born in 2015), OC (born in 2016), and JC (born in 2019). AC is the father of DC, OC, and JC. The Department of Children, Youth, and Families has been involved with the family since April 2013. Since 2013, the Department has received 11 intakes regarding the family, 8 of which have been screened in for allegations of domestic violence, physical abuse, parental drug use, and medical neglect. When an intake is “screened in,” the Department conducts an investigation based on the allegations in the intake. The Department does not follow up with an investigation when an intake has been “screened out.” 
In 2014, the mother participated in dependency proceedings for BB-P and BB-P was placed in out-of-home care. The mother engaged in services for substance abuse and domestic violence. In 2015, BB-P returned to the mother’s care and the dependency case was dismissed. DC had a developmental disability caused by a rare genetic syndrome that requires daily injections. DC was legally blind and did not sleep or eat well.
In June 2017, the Department received an intake that the mother had unaddressed mental health issues and she was not accessing services for one-year-old DC. The intake was screened out.
One month later, the Department received an emergent intake that DC was not receiving proper medical care. The intake alleged that DC was not receiving her medication. The intake also alleged instances of domestic violence in the home and that the father used methamphetamine. After an investigation, the Department filed dependency petitions for BB-P, DC, and OC. DC and OC were placed in out-of-home care, and BB-P was placed with his biological father. Both parents participated in various services, including chemical dependency services, domestic violence services, and parenting education. The parents also participated in medical training on the proper administration of DC’s medication. Because the parents engaged with services and made progress, the Department returned DC and OC to their care in 2019 and closed their dependency cases. BB-P remained with his father.
In January 2021, the Department received an intake that stated OC had scratches and bruising on her face. The Department screened in the intake for an investigation, but both parents refused to cooperate.
In November 2021, the Department received three separate referrals in two days about the family. Specifically, there had been a fire at the family home for which emergency services were not called and the family continued to reside in the home despite an insurance agent advising it was unsafe to do so. These referrals were screened out.
OC's Disappearance: The following facts are reflected in a sworn 2021 dependency petition for OC and a sworn declaration from the sheriff’s office. In December 2021, the Department received an intake from OC’s school. The mother reported to the school that OC had started a fire at the family home sometime in November 2021. School staff then visited the home on three occasions and did not see OC. When school staff asked DC about OC’s whereabouts, DC replied, “There is no [OC].” The school staff then contacted law enforcement, who began to investigate. The parents told law enforcement that OC was with her paternal grandfather. However, when officers contacted the grandfather, he reported that he had not seen OC since Christmas 2020.
The parents later reported to a police officer that they had “lost track” of OC between 5 and 10 days prior, in late November 2021, and the father then filed a formal missing person report in early December 2021. Police arrested the parents for obstruction of a law enforcement investigation.
Law enforcement also immediately placed OC’s siblings in protective custody, and the Department filed new dependency petitions for DC, OC, and JC.

The sheriff’s office interviewed BB-P and DC as part of their investigation. DC stated that OC had started the house fire with the mother’s torch and was subsequently beaten for it. DC also reported that OC was “under her mother’s bed and in the woods.”  BB-P reported that all four children were home at the time of the fire and that everyone made it out of the house except OC. BB-P additionally reported that the mother physically abused OC and JC and that OC was kept in a locked “cell” underneath the stairs. DC confirmed BB P’s statements regarding the mother’s physical abuse of OC. DC further stated that OC and JC were not safe in the mother’s care. The sheriff’s office obtained a warrant to search the family property for OC. The sheriff’s office also contacted known relatives and former foster parents regarding OC’s whereabouts. No one had information about OC." *See full document at this link

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8/7/2023

Bowers appeared for her Sentencing Hearing after taking a plea deal for ID theft charges. Judge Katherine Svoboda sentenced Bowers to 43-months, which is the top end of the sentencing range and more time than the 36-month plea deal she had agreed to. Judge Svoboda then stated, "She targeted vulnerable victims. She took advantage. She really has not in any meaningful way taken responsibility so it merits a sentence at the top of the standard range. It's all the court can do. 43-months followed by community custody of 12 months." Also during the hearing, Bowers did not agree to the restitution amount of $26,850,58 requested by the prosecutor to pay the victims. A hearing to address this will be held at a later date.

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9/13/2023

Jordan Bowers is transferred to Washington Corrections Center for Women in Gig Harbor, WA known as Purdy.